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Review – Dacia Spring (2026): is the 18 mil EV finally coming of age?

March 5, 2026

Sales hit, that Dacia Spring

Since the introduction of the Dacia Spring in 2021, more than 179,000 units have already been sold in Europe (through June 2025). In the first six months of 2025, more than 17,000 models have already been registered. This places the Spring in second place in the European sales rankings of electric cars to individuals (A-, B- and B-SUV segment). Of course, this is mainly due to its price and its favorable weight of about 1,000 kilograms. Subsidies also contribute to its success. In certain countries, you can buy a Dacia Spring for as little as a few thousand euros. Then the choice is not difficult.

Various updates

The Dacia Spring is not averse to updates. In 2022, the model received the new brand identity, in 2023 Dacia introduced a more powerful powertrain with a 48 kW (65 hp) electric motor, and in 2024 followed a major update with a completely redesigned design and an improved digital experience. During that update, the electric power steering was also better tuned, the model received new 15-inch wheels and a steering wheel with improved grip. In early 2026 it was time for another update, only this time the focus was mainly on technology. Or rather, the introduction of an updated platform.

Dacia Spring (2026): a BIZARRE UPDATE for cheapest EV – AutoRAI TV

Battery integrated into platform

A new battery has been integrated into the platform, while the center section has been strengthened. This increases the rigidity of the body and provides better weight distribution between front and rear axles. This ensures better balance. The braking system also went through an overhaul. It now offers improved power steering. Starting with the Expression version, 15-inch wheels are standard. For the first time, the Spring is equipped with a stabilizer bar, standard on all variants. This increases stability when cornering. The shock absorbers and suspension have also been recalibrated for added comfort.  

Aerodynamic improvements

Are there any cosmetic changes? Yes, of course! Aerodynamic improvements have also been made to the Dacia Spring. At the front, sides and rear, we detect air guides that improve airflow under the car and reduce turbulence. A new rear spoiler reduces air turbulence around the top of the tailgate. The result is lower drag and more favorable energy consumption. In turn, that means extra miles of driving.

Interior Dacia Spring 2026
Interior Dacia Spring 2026

Powertrain

OK, so a new platform is one of the novelties. But there is also news under the hood. Say goodbye to electric motors with 45 or 65 hp. From now on, you can choose from an electric motor with an output of 52 kW (70 hp) or 75 kW (100 hp). Thanks to the higher power and extra torque, the Dacia Spring feels significantly smoother. Especially when accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h, the Spring performs significantly better. The new Spring 100 accelerates over this range in just 6.9 seconds, followed by the Spring 70 at 10.3 seconds. By comparison, the previous Spring 65 took 14.0 seconds to do this and the Spring 45 even 26.2 seconds. Dacia supplies the Essential and Expression versions with the 70-hp electric motor, while the 100-hp motor is available exclusively for the Extreme.

24.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery

Dacia pairs the chosen electric motor with a 24.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. A new battery within Renault Group. The choice of this battery is obvious: higher thermal safety, longer life and lower cost. Charging capabilities have also been improved. Thanks to the optional 40 kW DC fast charging capability (for Expression and Extreme), the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in 29 minutes. This is a big improvement over the outgoing Spring with 30 kW DC charging capability. AC AC charging from 20% to 100% with the standard 7 kW AC on-board charger is also faster: from 4 hours to 3 hours 20 minutes. The Spring is also available with a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) function, which allows external electrical devices to be powered directly from the drive battery.

An average of 34 kilometers per day

Based on its own research, Dacia concludes that Spring drivers drive an average of 34 kilometers per day, divided into four trips at an average speed of 34 km/h. So with a WLTP range of up to 225 km (for versions with 15-inch wheels), the Spring can easily cover a full working week on one battery charge.

Luggage space Dacia Spring
Luggage space Dacia Spring

Luggage space

All in all, then, a comprehensive update for the Dacia Spring. The result: a very mature, compact electric car that is also surprisingly practical. It has a luggage space of 308 liters, but folding down the rear seats creates even 1,004 liters. At the tailgate, pay attention to the sharp points of the lid. You can bump your head badly there. Furthermore, the interior offers more than 32 liters of additional storage space, divided between the glove box, center console and door pockets.  

Furthermore, all versions come standard with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that is fully customizable. The Essential and Expression come standard with the Media Control system. This is operated via buttons on the steering wheel, with media information and phone contacts displayed on the instrument panel. Combined with the free downloadable Dacia Media Control app, additional functions are available directly from your smartphone.

The Extreme version of the Dacia Spring features a central 10.1-inch Media Display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Optionally, Media Nav Live is available for a period of eight years, which includes connected navigation with real-time traffic information and always up-to-date European maps.

YouClip System

Finally, the Spring introduces the clever YouClip system. This concept developed by Dacia allows accessories to be easily and safely clicked onto fixed anchor points in the interior. Standard features include three YouClip anchors: one on the dashboard and two on the center console. On these, accessories such as a handbag, phone holder (with or without wireless charger) or multifunctional 3-in-1 module, which functions as a cup holder, bag hook and flashlight, can be placed. All YouClip accessories are available through the Dacia dealer network.

The differences by equipment

The Dacia Spring is available in three trims. Standard features of the Essential include a 7-inch digital instrument panel, height-adjustable steering wheel with radio controls, electric power steering, the Media Control system with USB connection, cruise control and speed limiter, central door locking with remote control, front power windows, rear parking sensors and a 12V socket. The Expression combines the Essential’s equipment with air conditioning and 15-inch wheels. The top version in the range, the Extreme with 74 kW (100 hp) electric motor, stands out with copper-colored interior and exterior accents, electrically adjustable door mirrors and power windows in the rear, as well as the Media Display system with 10-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and two USB-C ports. Conclusion if you’ve read this: leave the Essential just fine. Air conditioning you just want to have, so at least go for the Expression.

Points of interest Dacia Spring

In terms of driving and experience, the Dacia Spring takes tremendous strides toward maturity. This is rightfully a good driving A-segment EV, but a car with some drawbacks. Space in the back seat is minimal, entry into the rear is tight and headroom isn’t too bad either. The luggage space is quite practical, even though there is a substantial lift threshold. One thing is certain: what Dacia has done with the Spring deserves nothing more than a big compliment. The Spring is now really finished. This is the version you really wanted, especially in combination with 100 hp. With 1,000 kilograms and 100 horsepower, you could almost call it an electric hot hatch.

These are the prices of the Dacia Spring